Makyra Tramble Joins Oral Roberts Women’s Basketball Coaching Staff
Former Southwestern Oklahoma State standout Makyra Tramble has been appointed as the director of player development for the Oral Roberts University women’s basketball program. The announcement, confirmed by ORU Athletics, reunites Tramble with head coach Kelsi Musick, for whom she played during her collegiate career.
What is Makyra Tramble’s background in basketball?
Before transitioning into coaching, Tramble established herself as a prolific scorer and leader at the collegiate level. According to SWOSU Athletics records, she finished her career as one of the most decorated players in program history. During her final season, she averaged 18.2 points and 7.4 rebounds per game, earning multiple Great American Conference (GAC) honors. Her familiarity with Coach Musick’s offensive systems and leadership style serves as the foundation for her new administrative and developmental role at Oral Roberts.
What will Tramble’s role involve at Oral Roberts?
As the director of player development, Tramble will manage the non-coaching aspects of the student-athlete experience. Her responsibilities include coordinating team logistics, facilitating academic support, and assisting with the daily operations of the basketball program. Unlike assistant coaches, who focus primarily on on-court instruction and recruiting, the director of player development acts as a liaison between the coaching staff and the players to ensure consistency in the team’s culture and personal growth initiatives, as outlined in the official program structure.
Why is this hire significant for the program?
The addition of Tramble represents a strategic effort by Kelsi Musick to integrate staff members who possess first-hand experience with her coaching philosophy. Musick, who previously led SWOSU to consistent success, is currently building the identity of the Golden Eagles. By bringing in a former player who understands her expectations, Musick aims to accelerate the cultural transition within the locker room. This hire mirrors a common trend in NCAA Division I athletics, where head coaches prioritize familiarity and shared history to cultivate stability during rebuilding or transitional phases.
Comparison: Coaching Staff Roles
| Role | Primary Focus |
|---|---|
| Head Coach | Strategy, recruiting, and final decision-making. |
| Assistant Coach | On-court skill development and scouting reports. |
| Director of Player Development | Operational logistics, academic oversight, and team culture. |
What happens next for the Golden Eagles?
With Tramble now in place, the Oral Roberts coaching staff is set to focus on the upcoming season’s preparation. The team is looking to improve upon its recent performance in the Summit League. According to the Summit League standings, the program remains focused on strengthening its roster depth and maintaining high academic standards, both of which fall under the purview of the player development office.